The Garioch Fiddlers
Strathspey and Reel Society was formed in 1982 in Inverurie,
Aberdeenshire by the late Bruce Turnbull with around fifteen founder
members. When Bruce left the group in the mid-eighties, deputy conductor
Alex Garden took control for a short time. On the sudden death of Alex
Garden in the spring of 1986, Dorothy Ferguson took over as conductor
and musical director, and it was under her leadership and with her
musical arrangements that our Society developed its own particular
“sound”. Since Dorothy's retirement in the summer of 2011, Colin
Dempster took over the Conductor's baton until this summer (2016) when
Colin announced his retirement. The Conductor's baton is now in the
capable hand of Susan Simpson. Susan is supported by Assistant Conductor
Neil Hehir, who is also Orchestra Leader. The society is very fortunate
to have a strong Junior section which is very ably led and conducted by
Alexander Davidson. This team continues to ensure a balanced programme suited to the occasion is always produced.

In December 2012
the Society celebrated its 30th Anniversary of our formation, an
appropriate time to recognise what has been sustained throughout that
time. Whilst predominantly fiddlers, players of complementary
instruments are made most welcome and the 'Garioch Fiddlers' together
produce a quality sound evident in our concerts, CD's and of course, the
Annual Rally in Inverurie Town Hall.

Throughout the many
years of the Society’s existence we have performed, and continue to
perform all over the north-east of Scotland to raise funds for church
groups, charities and local organisations. We have for some years given
a biennial concert in support of a local charity in towns around
Scotland and North England.

We enjoy the
relaxed and social aspects of our weekly practices and performances. The
biennial 'tour' brings members and partners together socially and we
enjoy the opportunity for the mixing of various age groups. The Annual
Family Ceilidh is a clear example of harmony and respect spanning an age
range of at least three generations. Excellent music, dancing of all
kinds and different energy levels, games for all ages - all combine to
provide enjoyment in a family ethos not so common in contemporary social
gatherings.

The overall effect
and attraction of the Garioch Fiddlers is one of welcome inclusion which
continues through weekly support and encouragement, typified by
Conductor Susan Simpson, Chairman Jerry Morse and members of the
committee who give so much, so
willingly. We are fortunate that from our number we have soloists and
small groups who are happy to share their talents in our concerts. We
make possible the nurturing of talent and support the life-blood of a
musical culture.

Just a note about
our name – Garioch is pronounced “Gearie” (rhyming with “dearie”). The
Garioch is an area of the countryside in Aberdeenshire that takes in our
home base of Inverurie.